Folkers, Merle L.

Merle L. Folkers, 78, of 308 Grove St., Shellsburg, died at his home Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012. Per Merle's request, there will be no service. Private family visitation will be held. Inurnment at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include his wife, Dinah; his six children, Lora Schultz, Pam (Craig) Barber, Nancy Hughes, Susan (Rob) Barton, Terry Folkers and Doug Folkers; and three stepchildren, Dennis (Margie) James, Dan (Lynne) James and Dawn (Mike) McNeese.

He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Merle was born Aug. 25, 1934, in Marion, the son of Theodore and Clara Anderson Folkers. Merle was a machine operator at Quaker Oats and retired from there after more than 38 years of service.

He was past master of Marion Lodge No. 6, Benton City Lodge No. 81 and a member of the Scottish Rite and the El Kahir Shrine.

His best times were spent with his large family and family gatherings. He loved working in the garage, the yard and watching auto racing. His hobbies include micro mini tractor pulling. He loved swimming at Bender Pool with friends and visiting with good neighbors.

He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Published in The Gazette Dec. 17, 2012.